Measurements of $\gamma p \rightarrow K^{+} \Lambda$ and $\gamma p \rightarrow K^{+} \Sigma^0$ cross-sections have been obtained with the photon tagging facility and the Crystal Ball calorimeter at MAMI-C. The measurement uses a novel $K^+$ meson identification technique in which the weak decay products are characterized using the energy and timing characteristics of the energy deposit in the calorimeter, a method that has the potential to be applied at many other facilities. The fine center-of-mass energy ($W$) resolution and statistical accuracy of the new data results in a significant impact on partial wave analyses aiming to better establish the excitation spectrum of the nucleon. The new analyses disfavor a strong role for quark-diquark dynamics in the nucleon.
Excitation function at cos(Theta_K+)cm = -0.8
Excitation function at cos(Theta_K+)cm = -0.7
Excitation function at cos(Theta_K+)cm = -0.6
The reaction gamma p --> K0 Sigma+ was measured in the photon energy range from threshold up to 2.6 GeV with the SAPHIR detector at the electron stretcher facility, ELSA, in Bonn. Results are presented on the reaction cross section and the polarization of the Sigma+ as a function of the kaon production angle in the centre-of-mass system, cos(Theta_K^{c.m.}), and the photon energy. The cross section is lower and varies less with photon energy and kaon production angle than that of gamma p --> K+ Sigma0. The Sigma+ is polarized predominantly at cos(Theta_K^{c.m.}) \approx 0. The data presented here are more precise than previous ones obtained with SAPHIR and extend the photon energy range to higher values. They are compared to isobar model calculations.
Axis error includes +- 10/10 contribution (Normalization uncertainty already included.).
Axis error includes +- 10/10 contribution (Normalization uncertainty already included.).
Axis error includes +- 10/10 contribution (Normalization uncertainty already included.).